Local Emily Rawlings has continued to make a name for herself as one of the most talented young people in the state, winning the Santos Regional Service Awards at the 2018 Channel 9 Young Achiever Awards.

Emily, who is 19 years old, won the award from a strong field of nominees. She was one of twelve category winners announced on Friday at the Hilton Adelaide.

Despite having made it all the way to the final on her credentials, Emily didn’t think she would win. But her reputation as a talented musician, radio host and event organiser got her over the line.

“The moment was even better because I was a bit surprised,” she said.

“This award shows how much I have put in to the Whyalla community, I really appreciate the fact that you can get awards like this that let you know it’s all worth it.”

It’s been a long journey for Emily since she was announced as a nominee for the Young Achiever Awards, one she described as ‘very tense’.

“Once you get nominated you have to wait to see if you made the semi-finals, then wait to find out if you’re in the final. There’s a lot of waiting involved,” she said.

Emily thanked her parents, Greg and Samantha, and her mentors – Whyalla City Council Youth Development Officer Gail Rostig, Whyalla Music Association President Brian Kawczyk and Joy O’Malley for their support.

“My parents are very chuffed and very excited about it,” she said.

Not only does Emily’s award win highlight her own achievements, but it also shines a light on Whyalla.

“It does give Whyalla a little more recognition, which is really good because Whyalla is a great place. If I’m making a good name for Whyalla, then that’s an added bonus,” she said.

Emily’s musical talent was also on display on the night, as she was given the honour of singing the National Anthem in front of a crowd of more than 500 people.

“It was very prestigious to have the honour to sing it because of the location,” she said.

Emily thanked the Whyalla community for voting for her in the Young Achiever Awards.